Samuel M. Powell

Powell's book is an interesting read. The unifying theme of his work is from creation to new creation. At most junctures, his work reads more like a biblical theology than a summary of systematic theology.

His work is more inductive in that it begins with (Powell's supposition of) what the reader already knows about theology and leads the reader to more precise confessions of the Christian faith. However, Powell's approach seems to belie the very teaching role of the church which tends to be more deductive. The reader may be disappointed with Powell's approach because he does not describe his methodology in the book - something which is generally characteristic of theological works.

He begins each chapter with a quote from one of the hymns of the Wesley brothers. Each chapter opens with learning objectives, key words to understand and questions to consider. The chapters conclude with ethical dimensions of the doctrine discussed, summary statements and questions for reflection. There are many sidebars which address some of the controversies; however, the issues are not discussed in great depth. The lack of footnotes is frustrating for the professor who attempts to teach students the importance of referencing citations, especially in a book that is intended to serve as a textbook for the introduction to Christian beliefs.

Despite these criticisms, Powell makes a solid contribution to the field of study. Powell has given his readership a work which is true to his own Wesleyan tradition. Throughout the work, he provides an appropriate balance on the essential nature of God as holy-love. It is a good introduction to Christian beliefs, especially from the Wesleyan viewpoint. The many helps to learning will serve well both the professor and the student of Christian beliefs.
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